Croydon Council to boost patrols after bus driver complaints over illegal parking

Croydon Council is increasing patrols along London Road in Thornton Heath to address illegal parking that a bus driver claims is causing significant congestion and delays. Staff at Haji & Sons, a local butcher and greengrocer, have been parking a vehicle on double yellow lines outside their shop, which a bus driver reported as obstructing services.

Concerns over congestion and safety

The bus driver, who operates on the 109 route, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that the vehicle, often parked from 8am to 6pm, has been causing problems for buses and emergency vehicles for months. He stated that the obstruction forces buses to make difficult manoeuvres, sometimes pulling away from the kerb, which poses risks for passengers, particularly those with mobility issues or buggies. The driver also reported that an ambulance had been delayed by the parked car. He has contacted Croydon Council's parking enforcement team multiple times regarding the issue.

The driver explained that these delays create service gaps, impacting passengers waiting at bus stops. He noted that when buses are held up, other services on the high-frequency route can end up queuing behind them.

Shop staff cite lack of loading bays

Employees at Haji & Sons defended their parking practices, stating they need direct roadside access for deliveries due to a shortage of council-provided loading bays. One staff member told the LDRS that handling fresh produce, such as meat, requires immediate unloading and that carrying carcasses across the road would be unhygienic. They also suggested that the bus stop outside their premises is excessively large, further limiting their options.

Ali, a staff member whose uncle owns the business, added that the limited number of loading bays are frequently occupied. He also indicated that the challenges of parking and road changes have led the family to consider closing the 35-year-old business, which has also seen a decline in shopper trade.

Council response and enforcement

A spokesperson for Croydon Council confirmed that civil enforcement officers regularly patrol London Road. They stated that Penalty Charge Notices will be issued to vehicles found to be parked in contravention of restrictions. The council acknowledged the ongoing issues with illegal parking and its impact on traffic flow and public transport. In response, they are increasing enforcement patrols along London Road to improve compliance and keep the route clear. The council encourages residents to report persistent parking contraventions for investigation.

When the LDRS observed a call between the bus driver and the council's parking team, officials indicated that enforcement officers have limited options once a vehicle has moved from a reported location. They suggested reporting the matter to Trading Standards as an alternative.